GCSE Success Stories 2024
Determination Rewards Millie with Sweep of 9s
Narayan is a brilliant historian and loves delving into the archives to support his studies. A regular presenter at History Society events, he has a particular interest in 20th Century history between the world wars and the area of responsibility. He was very happy with a reel of top 9 grades and one grade 8. Lana Steps into the Spotlight with Fantastic Results
Outside of the classroom Lana is a seasoned performer on stage, whether it is in a school play or a musical production but preparation for her performance in her GCSE exams was key and the final production resulted in fine reviews with all top grade 9s and 8s.
“I was calmer than I thought I would be this morning but the nerves got to me this morning, however I am really pleased with my results. It has been a difficult to make my A Level choices as I love all my subjects. I have chosen Philosophy & Theology, English, Fashion Textiles and Drama.”
“Moving into Sixth Form, it is going to be nice to meet some new people, I am looking forward to new opportunities and a bit more freedom. I find change really exciting. I’ve done all the school plays since First Year – I love performing and being on stage so I’m looking forward to getting involved with the Sixth Form plays!”
Any advice for new First Years joining Caterham in September? Lana says “Throw yourself into everything -there is so much opportunity here – just really take all that you can, not everyone has that so make the most of it”
“Thank you to all my incredible teachers who have given me so much, I couldn’t have done this without them – It makes me quite emotional thinking about it! I’m looking forward to celebrating with my family at home with a nice lasagne!
Samuel’s Summer of Science Topped Off with Fine Grades
Narrowly missing out on a clean sweep of top grade 9s didn’t disappoint Samuel who is rightly very proud of his performance. He is going on to study Further Maths, Physics, Economics and Computer Science at A Level.
“I am looking forward to being able to spend more time on and going deeper into the subjects that I love.”
“Outside of the classroom, I really enjoy debating so Model United Nations has been really fun to be a part of. I also enjoy Investment Club, learning about economics and investing has been super interesting”
Reflecting on his time so far at Caterham, Samuel said “The community here is very special and I am part of a great year group. The teachers have been amazing – they are truly passionate about their subjects. Mr Mansell, my physics teacher has been really inspirational. I have been writing an Independent Research Project on Quantum Physics this summer, his enthusiasm for Physics has rubbed off on me!”
“Thanks to my parents who have supported me throughout – you are who you are because of your parents!
Results Sing for Kayla
Musician Kayla knows what it takes to hit the high notes so she was signing from the rooftops when she received her results full of top grades 9s and 8s with just one 7.
“I’m very happy and relieved that my results mean I can study the subjects I wanted to at A Level next year – Maths, Economics, Biology and Chemistry. I’m super excited”
Taking her first solo for Chamber Choir this year in France was a real highlight in the lead up to GCSEs. “I really enjoy the co-curricular clubs here, as well as music, I’ll be writing for Preview, our politics magazine as well as for Arts publication, ‘Cat Among the Pigeons’ – I was junior editor in Year 10. I’m also looking forward to getting back into Lacrosse next year, I’m hoping to play in the Nationals”
“I’m excited for the enrichment opportunities in the Sixth Form. There are lots of essay competitions to take part in including the Independent Research Prize which I’m looking forward to. Community is also a part of school, the help and support available is really appreciated.”
“I want to thank Miss Hookway and Mrs McVitty in particular for their support and of course my parents. Today has been a really great day!”
Ranked in the top 20 in UK mountain biking Tom is used to navigating ups and downs but GCSEs brought a different kind of challenge. Happily, results day saw Tom celebrate a string of top grade 9s and 8s to add to his sporting medals.
Take a Bow Ruby!
A talented singer and dancer, Ruby is used to performing well. Achieving all top grade 9s and 8s in her GCSE results has opened up the stage to focus her studies on History, Latin, Biology and Psychology at A Level.
“I’m really happy with my results and can’t wait to celebrate. I’m excited to study in the Sixth Form and will embrace every opportunity that comes my way. I’m going to continue with the choir and there is a dedicated dance troupe for Sixth Form pupils.”
“The community here at Caterham is really special. I joined in Year 7 not knowing anyone, the welcome was huge and I have made such a fantastic group of friends. I’m looking forward to spending more time with them in the Sixth Form centre here, it has a really great vibe. I would like to thank my teachers who have been fantastic and my parents for their support and my friends too. I think friends are a really good support network to have especially during exam time. I’m really looking forward to celebrating with now!”
Fencer Alexander Spars for Top Grades
Alexander used his honed fencing skills of speed, agility and mental strength to bring home a sweep of top grade 9s and 8s in his GCSEs.
“I am very happy, my results mean that I can do the subjects that I wanted to do – Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Psychology. I am looking forward to advancing the subjects from GCSE to A Level and focusing my learning.”
“I compete nationally in fencing but had to put it on pause to concentrate on my exams. Once exams finished I was happy to get back to my sport. I am hoping to enter the cadet nationals and get closer to the GB squad.”
“I’d like to say thank you to all my teachers and my parents for all their support and encouragement especially during revision time.”
Tips for younger pupils? Alex advises “Have fun but work hard, don’t leave the effort until later!”
